Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Kiwi, Banana and Apple Salad
Colorful mix of chopped fruit with dressing.

Kiwi, Banana and Apple Salad

This sweet and tangy fruit salad is a great side dish for summer BBQs, picnics and potlucks.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
3 Cups
Beet and Carrot Salad
Sliced carrots and beets are mixed with a light dressing and displayed in a salad bowl.

Beet and Carrot Salad

Quick and simple to make, this colorful beet and carrot salad makes the perfect side dish.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
5 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Couscous Salad
Large bowl of a vegetable packed Couscous Salad.

Couscous Salad

A light and colorful salad combining sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans and fresh vegetables with couscous pasta.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
5 cups
Quick Brown Bread
Sliced loaf of whole-wheat bread with evenly space air pockets.

Quick Brown Bread

Warm and comforting quick bread with whole wheat flour and a hint of sweet brown sugar.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
50 minutes
Makes:
16 slices
Quick Chili
Photo of Quick Chili

Quick Chili

With 5 ingredients and 30 minutes, you will have a hearty and satisfying chili. Add your favorite veggies and toppings.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups
Carrot Cake Cookies
Round cookies on a plate.

Carrot Cake Cookies

Soft and tasty cookies filled with oatmeal, carrots and raisins. These are a healthy snack or dessert that the whole family will love!
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
48 Cookies